Thanks to the many who gave up their .02 cents on purchasing the cheap one
or the expensive one-- sorry I couldn't reply individually, but thanks.  The
overwhelming consensus was "you get what you pay for" and this afternoon we
heeded that advice.

We purchased an '89 Westy that's in tremendous condition and has had the
royal treatment by J&W Volkswagon of Reno, NV.  I can't recommond Jerry and
Randall enough--they wasted their whole Saturday letting my wife and I paw
through every van on the lot.  Their craftsmanship is without question, and
it's rare to meet someone that forthright.

The question part:  I've seen references to several repair manuals; is there
a consensus on the "the" manual?  I'm assuming one might ultimately need
multiple manuals, but perhaps in the early stages one is more comprehensive
than another?

Thanks Again.